Project Lazarus wishes a 'Bon Appetit' to supporters

Dining around town became a cause -- and a reason to throw a party! -- on Saturday, Sept. 28, for Project Lazarus’ annual “Bon Appétit.” Chaired this year by Maryam Bahman, who was ably aided by her co-chairs David Cortez, Laura Fine, Bruce Gallassero, Rusty Harris, Don Paul Landry and the Rev. Philip Landry, 23 Project Lazarus supporters hosted dinner parties at their homes, or in one case, on the way to New Orleans. These culinary affairs ranged from casual buffets -- like the party organized byAngie Bowlin, Chris Fransen, Kelp Littlefield and Carl Little -- to sit-down, multi-course affairs paired with fine wines, such as the one hosted by Dr. Troy Scroggins. On the menu? Parmesan soufflé with mushroom and prosciutto; fig and arugula salad with spicy maple vinaigrette; pasta Alfredo with lump crabmeat and truffle oil; grilled pork tenderloin with sweet onions and jalapeño cornbread; and braised beef short ribs with mashed potato, sweet chard and horseradish cream. What makes it even more special was Dr. Scroggins was the chef de cuisine. Another group did a “traveling party,” which went from Baton Rouge and stopped at five restaurants before arriving in New Orleans. As tradition would dictate, after dinner all made the journey to the Belfort Mansion, where the dessert party was hosted by Jim Perrier and Jim Ashbee.

“Bon Appétit is a fun, casual way for Project Lazarus' friends and supporters to involve members of the community who may otherwise not have known about this wonderful organization,” says Angie Bowlin, a former Project Lazarus board chair. “The individual parties allow the hosts to be as creative as they want with their events and an uncomplicated way to raise funds.”

Project Lazarus serves New Orleans and the surrounding parishes, providing transitional housing to those who have no other place to live. Clients include people living with HIV/AIDS and in various stages of health. Care is individualized according to each person's needs.